Director of Human Resources

Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) has created some of New York’s most beloved restaurants, cafes, and bars, which offer outstanding food delivered with our signature warmth and hospitality. Founded by Danny Meyer with the opening of Union Square Cafe in 1985, the company now extends beyond the walls of its eateries.


USHG has long supported its communities through hunger relief and civic organizations. USHG holds 28 James Beard Awards and numerous accolades for its distinctive style of hospitality.

Who you are:

The Director of Human Resources is an inspirational person who provides leadership, strategic, and tactical Human Resources support with people, operations, and financial objectives. Reporting directly the Vice President of Human Resources, this role will provide full-scale human resource expertise including onboarding, employee relations, employment compliance, policy and procedure advice, employee benefits support, and leadership support for HR best practices and guidance. The Director of Human Resources is a role model who will actively and consistently embody our culture and behavior through the work being done in this role.

What you'll do:

• Cultivate a culture of Enlightened Hospitality for all stakeholders that supports our business objectives and growth
• Provide support and education for compliance and employee relations issues as needed
• Facilitate and partner with leadership with HR representation such as progressive discipline, unemployment, workers comp, and leaves of absence
• Take an active lead in the ongoing training, development, and growth of employees
• Support the adoption, education, and implementation of HR initiatives related to; Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging, employee outreach and support, and community outreach
• Partner with leaders to support weekly payroll processes where needed
• Provide training to managers regarding SOPs, policies, and business initiatives and provide proper coaching where needed
• Support managers and employees in the understanding and application of employment practices from both the legal and company perspectives
• Coach and support employees in all areas of company policy
• Work with the HR Team and Legal Team to ensure that USHG is compliant with all local, State, and Federal employment laws
• Communicate updates to managers regarding applicable laws and business practices
• Manager the consistent interpretation and application of the various policies within each of the businesses

What we need from you:

• At least 7+ years of HR experience supporting the full scope of HR practices
• 2+ years of people management experience
• Bachelor's degree in human resources, Industrial Organizational Psychology, or related field
• Commensurate experience related to HR with a combination of SHRM/SPHR desired
• Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Knowledgeable in HRIS systems
• Capable of teaching and holding peers accountable
• Excellent oral and verbal communication skills
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
• Organizational awareness and team-oriented mindset
• Proclivity in supporting and providing guidance to all
• Ability to embody and teach USHG Behaviors
• Ability to apply discretion independently and maintain confidentiality as needed
• English fluency. Knowledge of Spanish language is strongly preferred
• Ability to work on-site in our home office and within our businesses

What you’ll get from us:

At Union Square Hospitality Group, extending Enlightened Hospitality is at the heart of everything we do. We believe our people are our greatest ingredient. Joining our team means becoming part of a culture rooted in care, creativity, and growth. As a Director of Human Resources, you’ll enjoy:

• Competitive pay and bonus potential: Annual compensation of $130,000 - $140,000 plus eligibility for a performance-based bonus, with consideration for your experience and impact
• Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus flexible spending options for healthcare and dependent care
• Time to recharge: Generous paid time off and paid parental leave to support life outside of work
• Investing in your future: A matched 401(k) plan to help you grow long-term savings
• Peace of mind: Life insurance, employee assistance programs, and exclusive access to primary care, mental health, and other wellness services.
• Support in times of need: Access to the USHG HUGS Employee Relief Fund, offering direct assistance to team members facing unexpected hardship
• Dining Credit: An annual dining credit to enjoy exceptional meals and experiences at any of our restaurants
• Dining Discount: A 51% dining discount across the entire USHG family of restaurants to share unforgettable meals with friends and loved ones
• Convenience & flexibility: Pre-tax commuter benefits for transit and parking
• Growth and community: Opportunities for learning, mentorship, and collaboration with some of the most passionate people in hospitality.

Putting Enlightened Hospitality into Practice

Integral to our culture are our six behaviors. Our behaviors guide how we work together.

• We play to win with humble swagger. Hospitality is a team sport where everyone deserves an opportunity to thrive and belong
• Turn over the rocks and always be connecting dots to build uplifting experiences and relationships
• Center the salt shaker with an unwavering commitment to excellence and the values that matter most
• Write a great next chapter. The road to success is paved with mistakes well-handled
• Bring a charitable assumption and err on the side of generosity
• Leave our campsite better than we found it; always responsible for the impact of our wake

*The above represents the expected salary range for this position. Ultimately, in determining your pay, we'll consider your experience and other job-related factors.

The responsibilities outlined above are not exhaustive. This role may be required to take on other duties or projects as necessary to support organizational goals, in alignment with their skills, experience, and the evolving needs of the business.

Equal Opportunity Employer


This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.